I am adding my contribution to the Library Routes Project with this post. I have actually not started working in the library sector yet but I can share with anyone who wants to read this why I would like to work as a librarian.

First, it all started with becoming disillusioned in Brooklyn. I had an undergraduate degree in a subject that I backed into rather than ever having an interest in and this degree led me into non-profit work which I did enjoy to an extent but the roles I had were always administrative or at best working with donors but only rarely seeing clients and as such only very rarely being able to have a direct effect on those that needed my help. I knew this wouldn’t do and I bounced around a ton of ideas in my head anything from law school to the PeaceCorps while dismissing them in turn: too corrupt, too mismanaged…

What’s that you say? Libraries, books, other librarians that you are sure to have a great conversation with, access to information…. for all, directly helping people learn, a generalist subject for people that love everything and can’t pick one specialty.

I was hooked. I did a stint in Korea so I could be closer to Tokyo and get a cheaper flight to my brother’s wedding. Then, that one year turned into two as I met the woman who I will soon marry. Being a teacher in Korea proved how much I would love to work in a position that allowed me more access to service-receivers. Then, I came to England and somehow got a place at a great programme at the University of Sheffield despite having no experience. Now, I somehow have to overcome this lack of experience along with the UK’s nationalist policy to grant employment based on where you were born rather than your suitability for a job. However, I’ll make it happen. Look for me in your local public library soon.